As the 2026 Super League season kicks off, excitement is building across the rugby league community. This year promises intense competition, with Hull KR aiming to defend their historic treble, while new and returning clubs seek to make their mark. Here is a detailed team-by-team guide to the upcoming campaign, examining strengths, weaknesses, and what fans can expect.
Bradford Bulls: A Challenging Return to the Top Flight
The Bradford Bulls are back in Super League after a twelve-year absence, marking a significant moment for the former champions. However, their return comes with considerable hurdles. Promotion was only confirmed in October, leading to late recruitment and a squad rebuild from part-time to full-time operations. Coach Kurt Haggerty and captain Joe Mellor face a tough task, with key player Andy Ackers pivotal. Predicted to finish 14th, their first season back is likely to be a struggle as they adapt to the elite level.
Castleford Tigers: New Look with NRL Talent
Castleford Tigers have undergone a major transformation, bringing in fourteen new signings, including standout recruits from the NRL like Semi Valemei, Mikaele Ravalawa, and Blake Taaffe. Under highly regarded coach Ryan Carr, the Tigers aim to improve on last year's disappointing 11th-place finish. While playoffs may be a stretch, they are expected to climb to 9th, with Taaffe as a key player to watch.
Catalans Dragons: Playoff Contenders in a Tight Race
Now one of two French teams in Super League, the Catalans Dragons have the talent to compete for a playoff spot, particularly with Toby Sexton's move from Canterbury. Coach Joel Tomkins and captain Ben Garcia will lead the charge, but in a crowded field, they might just miss the top six, predicted to finish 8th after last season's 9th place.
Huddersfield Giants: Battling Fitness Issues
Huddersfield Giants endured a disappointing 2025, plagued by injuries that continue into this season with star half-back Adam Clune sidelined. If they can field their best side, they might cause upsets, but a squad that underperformed last year is unlikely to break into the top six. Predicted 11th, they need key players like Tom Burgess to step up.
Hull FC: Building on Positive Momentum
Hull FC enter the season with high hopes after a strong 2025 under John Cartwright. Their recruitment strategy has focused on experience, aiming to build on last year's 7th-place finish. With talent like Jake Arthur, they are playoff contenders, predicted to hold steady at 7th in a competitive mid-table scramble.
Hull KR: The Team to Beat After Historic Treble
Hull KR are the undisputed favourites, having completed an historic treble in 2025 and set to compete in the World Club Challenge. Under coach Willie Peters, with captain Elliot Minchella and key player Mikey Lewis, they have the squad depth and form to dominate again. Predicted to finish 1st, they are the benchmark for Super League excellence.
Leeds Rhinos: Back to Contention
Leeds Rhinos have rediscovered their form under Brad Arthur, returning to the playoffs last year after missing out in 2023 and 2024. A semi-final defeat to St Helens still stings, but with players like Jake Connor, they are poised for improvement. Predicted to finish 2nd and win the Grand Final, they are among the top contenders alongside Hull KR and Wigan.
Leigh Leopards: Maintaining Top-Six Status
Leigh Leopards were a surprise package in 2025, nearly reaching the Grand Final after a rapid rise from the Championship. However, a slightly light squad in key areas means injuries could derail their campaign. Predicted 6th, they should make the playoffs again but face challenges in sustaining last year's success.
St Helens: Aiming to End Trophy Drought
St Helens have not won a trophy in two seasons, a rare drought for the club. New head coach Paul Rowley has recruited well, with key player Jack Welsby central to their hopes. The challenge is settling on a creative spine; if achieved, they are contenders, predicted to finish 4th.
Toulouse Olympique: Steady Return to Super League
Toulouse Olympique return to Super League stronger than in 2022, having been a full-time Championship outfit. With minimal recruitment, they trust the squad that won the Championship Grand Final. Predicted 12th, they are unlikely to finish last but will battle in the lower reaches.
Wakefield Trinity: Playoff Ambitions Continue
Wakefield Trinity's return to Super League was a success, making the playoffs under Daryl Powell. Impressive signings like Tyson Smoothy and Jazz Tevaga bolster their mid-table position. Predicted 5th, they are genuine playoff contenders again, competing with Hull and Catalans.
Warrington Wolves: Under Pressure After Disappointment
Warrington Wolves struggled in 2025 under Sam Burgess, failing to build on earlier success. With low-key recruitment, expectations are tempered, and Burgess faces pressure if results don't improve early. Captain George Williams is key, but predicted 10th, they may labour again.
Wigan Warriors: Bouncing Back from Trophyless Season
Wigan Warriors, after an unprecedented quadruple in 2024, ended 2025 without silverware, largely due to Hull KR's dominance. With Bevan French as Super League's standout player, they have the squad to compete on all fronts. Predicted 3rd, keeping French fit could secure at least one trophy in 2026.
York Knights: Historic Debut with Tough Challenges
York Knights make their Super League debut, bringing top-flight rugby league to North Yorkshire for the first time. Like Bradford, late recruitment after promotion confirmation means a tough inaugural campaign. Predicted 13th, they will bring enthusiasm but face an uphill battle against established sides.
In summary, the 2026 Super League season shapes up as a thrilling contest, with Hull KR leading the charge, Leeds and Wigan in close pursuit, and promoted clubs facing steep learning curves. Fans can expect drama, upsets, and high-quality rugby as teams battle for supremacy.
